Proud ViM,'Top Notes'

Its not about us, its about them, their words and their talent, so without any rambling, in no discernible order PViM's 'Top Notes' this week:

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PK Colleran

Sophia's Search

A beautifully written narrative that presents the remarkable story of Sophia Lillian Yilek Hilton Wenda, a woman whose birth and subsequent life were shrouded in mystery. Told through the eyes of her granddaughter, we learn of Sophia’s struggles, which she faces with love, resilience and determination. A heartwarming testament to the power of family stories and the enduring human need to understand our origins. Despite loss and sadness, Sophie’s story is a wonderful read that will leave your heart a little warmer and your day just a little better.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Colleen Millsteed

Lucky in Friendship

Serendipity at its finest, Collen's celebratory poem walks us through the joy and beauty of an enduring friendship. Exploring themes of unity and cultural appreciation, this story reminds us all of how quickly a single moment of openness and vulnerability can change our lives for the better, forever. Packed with the feel-good factor, a super read for those in need of an uplift. Yu won't be disappointed!

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thavien Yliaster

Broken Songbird

A complex, hard-hitting poem that slaps us hard with the invasiveness of guilt and remorse. Not to mention the aftermath of reconciliation. Centred around an intricate metaphor of a canary stifled; serving to highlight the consequences of past actions and wrong doing, Culminating in a painful acknowledgment and a longing for forgiveness that comes with the dead realisation of harm caused.

Overall, a vivid and powerful examination of the human capacity to cause harm and the need to rectify the ills we have done. Thought-provoking and insightful, a definite on the list for a more pensive afternoon.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Kenny Penn

An Ode to the PB&J

Nostalgic and whimsical, Kenny’s ode to the humble but much-loved sarnie of childhood wonder will, without a doubt make you smile from ear to ear. A simple but profound recipe for joy the poem cleverly integrates the importance of the final touch, an accompanying glass of milk. In between the thick white slices of bread lies not just peanuty goodness but also the innocence of childhood and the deep comfort such foods can evoke. Pure bliss to read, it will not only elicit a grin but will have you reaching for the um Jif..in a jiffy.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mohammed Darasi

Life Is Like A Blizzard

A deep and multifaceted reflection on life, Mohammed’s poetic musings explore both the challenges of the human condition as well as the rewards. Simile rich the blizzard is both a phenomenon of great albeit elusive beauty and an overwhelming challenge at times. The poem acknowledges our inherent struggle but overs up a hopeful and insightful message on the need for proactivity and optimism. A motivational piece that offers a perceptive reminder that we can find peace after a storm.

Jay Kantor

- Twins –

Another wonderful offering from Jay. Aside from the fact that he sketches his own featured image - adding a delightful whimsy to the reading experience- his authenticity is always earnest, endearing and gentle. And Twins is no exception. A reflective piece that explores the common myth that twins are similar in personality. Juxtaposing personal experience with the stereotype, we are taken on a poignant journey as Jay and his brother diverge into their own characters and temperaments. Very different in many ways but the takeaway truly is the close bond that they maintain, in spite of, or perhaps entirely because of their variances. A soothing read that celebrates diversity, acceptance and above all the love between family.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ponderments of the week.

As I thought about the creators featured this week the words of, F. Scott Fitzgerald returned to me from somewhere far in my memory:

"For what it's worth... it's never too late, or in my case too early, to be whoever you want to be. There's no time limit, start whenever you want. You can change or stay the same, there are no rules to this thing. We can make the best or the worst of it. I hope you make the best of it. And I hope you see things that startle you. I hope you feel things you never felt before. I hope you meet people who have a different point of view. I hope you live a life you're proud of, and if you're not, I hope you have the courage to start all over again."

Life is nothing if not a journey of discovery. Our paths are unique but the depth of human emotion -love, hurt, guilt joy...are at the heart of us all. Sometimes we write to make sense of it all, sometimes to feel, sometimes to be heard. Whatever the reason, our experiences of 'humaning' are valid and the words really do matter. Thank you to all of the creators featured this week, and thank you to those who weren't. You share boundlessly and make this life we lead so much more meaningful because of that. Thank you.

ℭ𝔢𝔩𝔦𝔞 𝔘𝔫𝔡𝔢𝔯𝔩𝔞𝔫𝔡

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

You can join in the Shenanigans here on Facebook ViM:

and Queer Vocal Voices here:

Note: Queer Vocal Voices is only accepting members of the LGBTQ+ community at the moment, we will open up to allies in time!

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We're focused on building a supportive, kind community network so we'd love to hear from you so feel free to add thoughts, ideas, suggestions in the comments below!

Please don't forget to support us with a happy heart and a hit of the subscribe button!